If you own a boat and plan to spend some time out on the water, you need to make sure you are taking the best possible care of your watercraft. If you don’t, then you are bound to run into problems sooner rather than later. Regular maintenance could turn into some costly repairs if that happens.
For instance, you need to get the right kind of boat cable and make sure you have installed it correctly. Let’s talk about how to choose the right marine electrical cables for your boat right now.
The Jacket Material
One thing you will need to consider when you’re looking at marine electrical cables is the jacket material. You can get cables with several different kinds, but they are not all created equal.
The right one should be tough, such as nylon or PVC. That is essential since marine environments can be particularly harsh. The wrong jacket material will wear down easily and potentially cause the interior elements of the cable to be damaged.
The Insulation Type
Along those same lines, you will want to make sure you get the proper insulation type for your marine electrical cables as well. There are ones that are specifically marine grade, and that’s what you’ll need.
The best options are usually something like XLPE or PVC. These are ideal because they are resistant to things like temperature fluctuations, moisture, and abrasion. Since you’re virtually guaranteed to get all of that on a watercraft, the insulation couldn’t be any more crucial.
The Wire Gauge
The kind of wire gauge you get will matter as well. You will need to know what kind of electrical load you’re dealing with. A cable that has a larger gauge will be able to handle a stronger current. A smaller gauge can’t handle as much.
The right size is the one that can adequately power the appliance or accessory you have chosen it for. Be aware of what kind of voltage drop could occur with each type of wire gauge and plan for it. If you’re not sure what kind of wire gauge you need for your intended purpose, ask an expert at a marine supply store.
The Current and Voltage Rating
The other thing you need to think about is the current and voltage rating for the marine electrical cables you select. Different cables are rated for various voltages. However, the one you want for a boat will probably be 12V.
You also have to make sure it is correctly rated for the current draw that is produced by your electrical system. Again, if you’re not sure about this, it’s helpful to ask a professional for their opinion.
It’s also helpful to look at a chart for marine electrical cables that acts as a guide. The American Boat and Yachting Council makes a chart for just this kind of situation. You can find one online by consulting their website. The chart takes into account vital factors such as voltage drop and electrical load.
